Facebook is all about video at the moment as it continues to manoeuvre its way to becoming a viable alternative and rival to YouTube for providing video content. 360 degree video is a growing medium now that cameras capable of capturing footage are now cheaper much more readily available. One we regularly visit on VRFocus as part of our Life in 360° series.) As such it is very much a part of that plan, and the company have recently announced a selection of updates and actions in relation to format which of course can be viewed on compatible virtual reality (VR) head-mounted displays (HMDs).
One such activity is occurring this weekend, although technically commencing on Friday 28th July and continuing to Sunday 30th July. With Facebook teaming up with Blend Media to present the “Weekend of Live 360”, a livestream celebrating creators of 360 degree videos (ostensibly those managed by Blend’s network) as well as revealing an array of 360 experiences that will be broadcast from select locations around the world. Each of which will have been filmed with use of a video camera from the Facebook Live 360° Ready Program.
Creators confirmed for the event include Studio KwO from Brazil, Adam Ravtech from the Yap Islands, DJ 360Fabriek from Amsterdam in the Netherlands to name but three. With livestreams viewable via the Blend Media’s Facebook page.
“The exponential growth in popularity of 360° video is a crucial step towards the evolution of content into something people experience rather than just watch.” Explained Blend Media Founder and CEO Damian Collier. “The launch of Facebook’s Live 360 Ready Program means not only that creators can produce and share unique immersive experiences more easily, but that more people around the world can experience this engaging format at scale. The ‘Weekend of Live 360’ promises some exhilarating and entertaining streams from our creators all over the world.”
VRFocus will bring you more news on Facebook’s push into 360 degrees in the near future.
via Mint VR